shrub

Japanese Laurel

Aucuba japonica 'Bored Female'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Average to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Japan, China, Korea

Toxicity

Berries are mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Aucuba japonica 'Bored Female' is an evergreen shrub known for its glossy, dark green, ovate leaves often marked with yellow or white variegation, and its small, inconspicuous flowers followed by bright red berries in winter. This cultivar is distinguished by its particularly dense, variegated foliage and its resilience in shaded areas, making it an attractive and low-maintenance addition to woodland gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides year-round greenery with shiny leaves, adding structure and privacy to gardens.

Drought tolerant once established; excellent for shaded areas.

Provides habitat and food for birds and beneficial insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a shaded or partially shaded location.
Tuck young plants into well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote roots.
Water consistently during the first growing season.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-drained, fertile soil and provide protection from harsh winter winds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Tuck seedlings into rich, moist soil 🌱
Mist cuttings to encourage rooting 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering to shape the shrub 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture 🌱

Don't

Don’t overwater in winter ❌
Avoid heavy pruning in late fall ❌
Don’t expose to harsh, drying winds ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge for privacyShade garden borderStructural shrub accent

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Japanese maples Azaleas Camellias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japanese Laurel questions

What zones can Japanese Laurel grow in?

Japanese Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Japanese Laurel deer resistant?

Yes — Japanese Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Japanese Laurel bloom?

Japanese Laurel typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Japanese Laurel need full sun?

Japanese Laurel does best in part shade.